Industry Jobs

JOB SUMMARY

Bilingual Public Affairs & Government Relations Intern (4-Month Contract)

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Role Overview

The Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) is seeking a Bilingual Public Affairs & Government Relations Intern for a four-month contract. Reporting directly to the Director of Public Affairs, you will gain hands-on experience in government relations, stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and event coordination while supporting CUTA’s national public affairs initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity for a student or recent graduate, looking to build a career in public affairs, government relations, public policy, or advocacy.

About CUTA

The Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) is the national voice of public transit and urban mobility in Canada. Our members include transit systems, government agencies, and industry partners working together to strengthen public transportation across the country. Through advocacy, research, collaboration, and government relations, CUTA works with all levels of government to advance policies that improve mobility and build stronger communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate meetings between CUTA members and Members of Parliament, Senators, Ministers, and senior government officials.
• Contact government offices to schedule meetings and follow up to ensure all logistics are confirmed.
• Track meeting schedules, invitations, confirmations, and action items with exceptional attention to detail.
• Prepare briefing packages, agendas, speaking notes, and background materials.
• Research federal transportation and public transit issues to support advocacy initiatives.
• Monitor federal government announcements, parliamentary activity, and transportation policy developments.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with CUTA members, government offices, and key stakeholders.
• Assist with the planning and delivery of the CUTA Policy Forum and Lobby Day.
• Support post-event reporting and help track advocacy outcomes.
• Collaborate with CUTA’s Public Affairs, Events, Communications, and Membership teams.

Qualifications

• A recent graduate or currently enrolled in a university or college program in Public Policy, Political Science, Public Administration, Government Relations, Communications, or a related field.
• Fluent in English and French.
• Comfortable making professional phone calls and communicating with government offices and stakeholders.
• Parliament Hill or political volunteer experience is considered an asset
• Able to manage multiple priorities and follow through on commitments.
• Highly organized with excellent attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Interested in public affairs, advocacy, government relations, and public transportation.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365.
• A collaborative team player with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

What You’ll Gain

• Work directly with CUTA’s Director of Public Affairs & CEO
• Gain hands-on experience in advocacy and federal government relations.
• Develop professional communication, organization, and project management skills.
• Build relationships with government officials, elected representatives, and transit leaders from across Canada.
• Contract Details
• Position: Bilingual Public Affairs & Government Relations Intern
• Location: Ottawa, Ontario
• Term: 4-month contract
• Start Date: September 2026 (or actual start date)
• End Date: December 2026 (or actual end date)
• Compensation: Paid internship (salary commensurate with experience)
• Contribute to national initiatives that support public transportation and urban mobility.

How to Apply

Interested? Please send your resume and a brief note telling us why you’d be a great addition to the CUTA team at [email protected] by August 14, 2026.

Our Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusion

CUTA is committed to fostering an inclusive, barrier-free, and accessible workplace. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, we will work with you to meet your needs.

We strongly encourage applications from individuals in equity-seeking groups, including women, racialized and visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons living with disabilities, and individuals identifying as LGBTQ+.